(1.19) It was worth a try. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has announced that Friday, January 19, will be the final day of service for the temporary Bristol-to-Providence ferry. RIDOT had contracted with SeaStreak, Rhode Island Fast Ferry, and the Block Island Ferry to offer free ferry service to travelers as an option for people affected by the closure of the westbound side of the Washington Bridge. According to WPRI:
RIDOT Director Peter Alviti Jr. says that this service is costing around $50,000 every day, while only supporting 300-400 passengers — an average of $145.84 per passenger.
“We implemented the ferries as part of a multi-modal solution to the Washington Bridge event. At the time of the closure, we needed to swiftly pursue all solutions to alleviate traffic and we did just that,” Alviti said. “Now that the bypass lanes are open and conditions have improved, it is appropriate to phase out the ferry service,” he continued.
The ferry will continue to operate through Friday, January 19, on the same schedule, all week at half hour intervals from 6am to 7pm. Go here for schedule information.
(Photo taken from Collier Park.)